Challenges of Educating Students With EBD Effectively Working With Others to Meet Student Needs

Teacher Role Limitations Ecological constraints Role constraints Legal constraints

Ecological Constraints Lack of experienced personnel to address problem behaviors Can lead to inappropriate and over- identification Identified professionals are overextended Increased enrollments Intensity involved in working with students

Role Constraints Multiple needs of students with EBD Educational and related services Inability of teachers to meet directly the needs of students with EBD The need for basic social change to meet these students’ needs Lack of teacher preparation or interest in this area

Legal Constraints Danger of liability and litigation need for restraint and other intrusive procedures Requirements of due process Discipline procedures Manifestation determinations Ethical restraints on use of intrusive- aversive interventions

Consequences of Exceeding Teacher Limitations Stress and burnout Dangers of litigation Reinforcement of inaction by responsible others

Stress and burnout High attrition rates among teachers of SEBD Diminished effectiveness Inability to dissociate from students and their problems

Dangers of litigation Inappropriate involvement in professional areas for which unqualified Medication Counseling Failure to follow appropriate procedures for intrusive interventions

Reinforcement of inaction by responsible others Reticence to involve students in general education activity “not ready” reinforces teachers who do not want to teach “problem” kids Reticence to involve parents and other caregivers “not helpful” “just as messed up as the child” results in dissociating students and disempowerment of families

Intrapersonal Considerations Work within yourself Recognize and respect the limits imposed by the environment and your role (don’t take on others’ roles) Find ways to team interactively Across teachers/specialists Within the profession (“pizza and beer” planning)

Interpersonal Considerations Recognize the limits of the job Avoid exceeding them w/o due compensation (financial and psychological) If others aren’t willing to pitch in, it is unlikely you can do it by yourself.